Tender process over, work to strengthen Saraswati embankment to begin soon

Haryana Saraswati Heritage Development Board (HSHDB) Vice-Chairperson Dhuman Singh Kirmach has said the increased water-carrying capacity of the Saraswati would ensure the smooth flow of water during the rains in Thanesar.

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Several colonies here were affected by floods two years ago due to the overflowing river and drains.

Last year, the state government approved a budget of Rs 29 crore for the widening and strengthening the embankments of the Saraswati in Kurukshetra.

The river’s existing water capacity is merely 200 cusecs, and it is expected to be increased to 400-450 cusecs.

Singh, who inspected the river with board officials on Sunday, said, “The process related to tenders has been completed. The work will begin this month. It will not only help in controlling floods, but also improve the quality of river’s water. The river is 18-km from Pipli to Jyotisar. The embankment will be strengthened in a phased manner.”

“After strengthening of the embankment from one side, a pathway will be constructed for ‘padyatra’ along the river. Participation of the general public is essential in the project because the Saraswati passes through the city,” he added.

“The board has been making efforts to ensure that no dirty water is discharged into the river. A 19-km parallel drain was built along the Saraswati for discharging dirty water, but it had been lying choked due to garbage. The drain has now been cleaned, and the dirty water is being diverted into it. The construction work of the STP in Kheri Markanda will also begin soon,” Singh added.

“To ensure the flow of clean and adequate water in the river, a 350-acre Saraswati Sarovar is also being built in the district. Rainwater will be stored in the sarovar, and it will recharge ground-water. It will also help beautify the area,” the HSHDB Vice-Chairperson said.